Parisse set to face Ireland

Italy have received a boost as captain Sergio Parisse will join the squad early on Tuesday after undergoing a final examination of his calf injury.

Parisse has been training with his club Stade Français in the French capital since surgery to drain a haematoma in his right calf in early September. He has been undergoing constant check-ups.

He picked up the injury in Italy's final pre-World Cup game against Wales in Cardiff on 5 September. The 32-year-old missed Italy's opening two World Cup matches, against France and Canada, and was unable to add to his 113 caps, 60 of which have come as captain.

The check-up on Monday showed a significant reduction in the haematoma. Parisse will join preparations for Italy's next match, against Ireland at the Olympic Stadium on Sunday.